From travel essentials to how to make sure you get the best hotel room, we find out how one of the world's leading hotel designers likes to travel
French-Belgian architect Jean-Michel Gathy is the self-proclaimed 'spoiled kid of the hotel industry'.
His firm, Denniston, is behind some of the most breathtaking hotels in the world—from the chic, earthy over-water villas at Cheval Blanc Randheli in the Maldives to the formidable St Regis Lhasa in Tibet, to the charming oasis that is Chedi Muscat and Aman Venice.
A jet-setter with impeccable taste, we couldn't pass on the opportunity to speak with Jean-Michel about how he travels, including his favourite destinations and top tips for jet lag.
Last trip?
I travelled to the US for a well-deserved holiday with my family.
Next trip?
I’m traveling to Saudi Arabia for business.
What do you love the most about travelling?
I love the African bush and Kenya, Botswana and Namibia have some stunning safari camps. I love to visit countries that have soul, charisma and a strong social identity—no matter where you are, every country has something new to offer in terms of inspiration.
I would love to travel to Iceland to see its rugged landscapes, glaciers, rough seas, hot springs and volcanoes. I’d also like to visit the south of Chile and the peninsula of Kamchatka in Russia, which has extraordinary wildlife and endless forests. Collecting art is also an indulgence of mine, and I like to collect and invest in local artwork whilst on my travels.
See also: Where To Stay in Namibia: The Hottest Hotels In One Of The World's last Wildernesses